Prior to entering the US Army, Major John H. Mark, Jr. graduated from St. John's University Law School, Jamaica, NY, with honors, in 2003. While a St. John's student he was deeply involved mentoring other students and providing service to St. John's and several neighborhood communities. Having been elected and serving as the president of the St. John's University Law School student body, John H. Mark, Jr. was known for his proactive support of the University and the student body. Just one achievement of his, was to rally the student body and the administration to honor a fellow student (Christopher Lawler) who lost his life in the tragic Flight 587 plane crash, by having a university room re-named in his honor .

On November 13, 2015 St. John's University School of Law had a special reflection on John's life, at the Annual Reception of the Armed Forces Chapter and the Armed Forces Society.

Dean Michael Simons, Dean Andrew Simons, Alumni Association President Cerullo, Armed Forces Society President Elizabeth Desmond, the principal honoree for the evening reception, General Thomas Principe, along with all the members of the Association remembered and honored John Mark, Jr.'s life and contributions to his God, Country and Family.

A plaque was installed in the School of Law as well as presented to Major John H. Mark, Jr.'s parents to commemorate this honor.